Description

The ABEX Community Involvement Award goes to a business demonstrating exceptional commitment to supporting arts and culture, amateur sports, education, healthcare, or voluntary groups. Judging considers the relative size of the business. Greater consideration is given for involvement that is not an extension of the firm's main business activities. This award celebrates businesses that actively contribute to the betterment of their communities, demonstrating a genuine dedication to making a positive impact in areas that extend beyond their core business functions.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years at the time of applying.
• Cannot have won this category within the past three (3) years.
• Demonstrate active contributions to community betterment through investment, time-commitment of staff, and/or leading key initiatives.

Description

The ABEX Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion recognizes a business demonstrating outstanding achievement in fostering equitable, sustainable, and measurable change. Recognizing excellence in practices, events, applied research, policy, programs, or other activities, this award highlights initiatives focused on traditionally under-represented groups such as women, visible/racialized minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+. Encouraging the celebration of cultural differences, community relationship-building, and substantial progress within organizations and the broader community, this award champions efforts to advance diversity and inclusion.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years at the time of applying.
• Cannot have won this category within the past three (3) years.
• Must demonstrate commitment to inclusive employment practices, showcase measurable impact on under-represented groups, and/or display innovative diversity initiatives.

Description

The ABEX Award for Export goes to a business that demonstrates exceptional performance in exporting Saskatchewan goods or services, showcasing remarkable performance on both national and international fronts. The successful business not only contributes to the growth of Saskatchewan's export sector, but also distinguish themselves as innovators in expanding the reach of Saskatchewan goods and services, while elevating the reputation of the province on the global stage.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years at the time of applying.
• Demonstrate success and growth in national or international markets.
• Showcase strategies and projections for future export success.
• Showcase impact of business exports on Saskatchewan's economy.

Description

The ABEX Award for Growth and Expansion is given to a business that has made significant changes in their business resulting in “Growth” or “Expansion”. Growth may encompass increased revenue, market share, or customer base, while expansion may include geographical reach, number or size of business locations, product lines, or service offerings. Recognizing achievements such as job creation and substantial investments, this award highlights businesses that strategically evolve and positively impact the economic landscape.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years at the time of applying.
• Display evidence of prior financial growth, as well as growth or expansion in other areas (market share, customer base, geographical reach, business locations, product lines, service offerings)
• Showcase the development of strategies and projections for future growth.

Description

The ABEX Innovation Award recognizes a business that redefines its industry through cutting-edge technologies, systems, services, or products. The successful business not only successfully implements innovative solutions but also leaves a lasting positive impact on their industry and contributes to enhanced sales, productivity, and overall sustainability. This award recognizes the bold trailblazing and positive transformation achieved by the forefront innovator, shaping a better future for both their industry and society.

Description

The ABEX Award for New Venture is presented to a new business venture that has been in existence for one to three years and has demonstrated exceptional performance in terms of current or expected profitability, job creation, and entry into new markets. Judging criteria emphasizes financial metrics, the unique nature of the new venture, and its significant impact on job creation and market expansion. This award acknowledges the success and innovative contributions of the winning new venture to the business landscape.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for a minimum of one (1) year and a maximum of three (3) years at the time of applying.
• Showcase the development of strategies and projections for future success.

Description

The ABEX Service Award is presented to a business, regardless of industry, that consistently surpass expectations in delivering high-quality service. Judging criteria consider the unique conditions of each business, evaluating factors such as size, growth potential, and the effectiveness of customer service initiatives. The successful business not only meets but exceeds industry standards, fostering strong customer relationships and contributing significantly to the overall advancement of their respective sector.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years at the time of applying.
• Demonstrate proof of exceptional customer service initiatives
• Showcase innovative service offerings.
• Outline impact of service initiatives on business success.

Description

The ABEX Award for Young Entrepreneur of the Year is awarded to an entrepreneur between the ages of 18-35 who has achieved success in launching and operating a new or existing business. Eligible candidates must offer a product and/or service; have long-term goals with corresponding strategies and have a demonstrated ability to innovate in response to marketplace challenges, resulting in a significant competitive advantage. Special consideration will be given to those who display an innovative approach to entrepreneurship.

Requirements

• Must be a for-profit business.
• Must be financially viable.
• Must be operating in Saskatchewan for at least two years at the time of applying.
• Cannot have won this category within the past three (3) years.
• Must be 35 years of age or less as of September 30, 2024.
• Must show evidence of financial success and include strategies for future goals.

Description

This award is presented to an individual who exemplifies the qualities of a business visionary and has contributed meaningfully to the local business community.

Description

This award is presented to an individual who has made a positive impact in Saskatchewan through volunteerism and philanthropy.